Koloa Landing Resort invites locals and visitors to taste the fresh, local flavors of one of Hawaii’s most famous dishes, poke, at the inaugural Kauai Poke Fest on Saturday, Nov. 2.
The event will feature a poke competition by Hawaii restaurants and chefs, a farmers’ market showcasing island vendors, a celebrity chef panel that includes Kauai’s own standout professional surfer Sebastian Zietz, Mel Tanioka from Tanioka’s Fish Market on Oahu, as well as a poke demonstration by the chef Sam Choy.
“We wanted to create a special event on Kauai to bring together both residents and visitors in celebration of poke, Hawaii’s iconic dish that has risen in popularity both nationally and internationally,” said Andy Evers, general manager at Koloa Landing Resort.
“Sam Choy was instrumental in putting poke on the map outside of Hawaii, and the inaugural Kauai Poke Fest will be a fun event filled with food and entertainment in celebration of the dish that is so special to us here on Kauai and across the state of Hawaii.”
“Poke” in Hawaiian means “to slice or cut into pieces.” The dish favorited by locals and visitors alike is traditionally made of raw fish, seaweed, onions, sesame oil and soy sauce. Poke is often served in a bowl over a bed of rice, or as a side.
“The Kauai Poke Fest is a great opportunity to show what poke truly means to locals, the island of Kauai and the state of Hawaii,” said Choy. “Poke can be prepared and enjoyed in many different ways, and I am so excited to see and taste everyone’s interpretation at the event.”
Portions of ticket sales will benefit the Kauai Habitat for Humanity and their mission to bring the people of Kauai together and build homes, communities and hope.
“We are extremely grateful to be designated as the beneficiary of the inaugural Kauai Poke Fest,” said Chris Young, community relations officer for Kauai Habitat for Humanity.
“Mahalo to Koloa Landing Resort for their support that will further allow us to continue working towards our goal of building affordable homes, improving the health and financial security, and opening doors to new opportunities for Kauai’s families,” Young said.
Tickets are $55 per person and are available at bit.ly/2oq1PMM.
Info: info@kauaipokefest.com
